Cai Lin Ji (蔡林記) first introduced their Hubei Signatures to Jurong Point in Boon Lay but has quickly introduced their second new outlet at Guoco Tower in Tanjong Pagar. Guoco Tower is conveniently connected to Tanjong Pagar MRT Station, and you can reach its store in less than two minutes after tapping out.
Cai Lin Ji is a very no-frills type of eatery where the food is served fast and priced reasonably.
Green Brick Tea
We had Hubei's prized heritage tea to accompany our meal. The Green Brick Tea ($6.80/pot) was mellow and refreshing, helpful to cut through the heavier dishes.
Steamed Pork with Rice Flour 4.2/5
While it didn't look the most appetising, the Steamed Pork with Rice Flour ($9.90) was a pleasant surprise. This had steamed soft potatoes and tender pork belly loaded with rich and nutty spiced rice flour. We learned that this is a rare dish even in restaurants in China and is usually enjoyed at home instead for special festive occasions.
Pearl Meatballs 4.2/5
The Pearl Meatballs ($5.90/3 pcs) were reminiscent of our local Lo Mai Gai (glutinous rice chicken). The rice exterior was sticky to the teeth, but we didn't mind. You will find tender and juicy meat within.
Vegetable Cold Dish Appetiser 3.5/5
For something lighter, you can consider the Vegetable Cold Dish Appetiser ($5.90), which has a slightly tangy mix of glass noodles, black fungus, carrots, and more.
Shrimp HuTangFen 3.8/5
We found the Shrimp HuTangFen ($11.90) a tad underwhelming. The gravy is distinctly peppery with a slightly thicker consistency.
While I enjoyed the bits of crunchy sour vegetables and savoury hae bi, they could come in a bigger portion for better variety in flavour and texture.
Zha Jiang Hot Dry Noodles 4.5/5
We initially saw a couple of average reviews for the Zha Jiang Hot Dry Noodles ($7.90), mentioning that it was too dry, but ours was done just right!
The slightly chewy noodles are tossed in a very nutty sauce with a base of sesame, dark soya, garlic and sweet bean before being topped with minced meat, crunchy preserved vegetables, and spring onions. This was full of flavour with well-marinated meat. I recommend mixing this up and digging in right away upon serving.
Three Delicacies Dou Pi 3.8/5
A traditional Hubei snack, the Three Delicacies Dou Pi ($4.50/pc, $8.50/2 pcs), is an interesting dish made of different layers of ingredients.
The base was potato flour, egg, steamed glutinous rice, and toppings of minced meat, pork belly, and mushrooms. Overall, I just thought it was a bit too oily for my liking.
Han Kou Wanton 4.5/5
The freshly made daily Han Kou Wanton ($6.90) came in a bowl of 10 pieces and would be a good sharing option. The wanton skin was smooth, with a savoury meat centre.
Photos and words by Jo. A girl who loves her Mala (麻辣) at Da La (大辣), discovering hidden food gems and a good cup of matcha latte. Note: This is an invited tasting.
Cai Lin Ji (蔡林記)
Guoco Tower
#B2-26
1 Wallich Street
Singapore 078881
Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)
Opening Hours:
Daily: 10am - 10pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Tap out from the train station and walk straight to destination. Journey time about 2 minutes. [Map]
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